Affirming Ministry

St. Aidan’s is an Affirming Congregation of the United Church of Canada.

What is an “affirming” congregation?

It’s a congregation that “declares itself to be fully inclusive of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities—and [whose members] back up their words with action.” Click here to read more about the United Church of Canada’s Affirming Ministries program.

In 2011, after a year of prayer, exploration, study and reflection, St. Aidan’s congregation voted 80% in favour of adopting this statement of faith:

We the congregation of St. Aidan’s United Church declare publicly our commitment to creating a community where all people, especially the marginalised, are welcomed and celebrated regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, age, mental or physical ability, gender, spiritual beliefs, ethnic or cultural background, marital status or economic circumstance.

All have the opportunity to celebrate their gifts and to take part in every aspect of our church life, including: membership, leadership, stewardship, and celebration of life passages.

We do this as one way to live out our core values of “Hospitality, Inclusivity, Spiritual Growth, and Reaching Out.” We strive to live God’s vision of wholeness and as a sign that Christ’s community is one of acceptance and love for all people.